It seems that everyone has their go-to method for cooking asparagus, with preference on consistency and taste usually determining how its cooked. However, those who are new to cooking asparagus may not know that there are several ways in order to cook these delicious green stalks. In this article, we take you through 3 of our favorite ways to cook asparagus, so you can find a tasty new way to cook this tasty spring vegetable.
Blanched (or Boiled) Asparagus
Boiling or blanching is a go-to way for many when cooking asparagus. When using this method, it’s important to make sure you don’t overcook it and end up with a sad, grey vegetable. Luckily, there is a way to both avoid this issue and set the color, so you can keep your asparagus that delightful shade of green.
The Spruce Eats tells us how you can avoid overcooking your asparagus when boiling or blanching:
“Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, drop asparagus in and cook until just tender, anywhere from 1 to 4 minutes depending on thickness. Drain and put asparagus in ice water until fully cool. Remove asparagus from ice water and pat dry.”
Steamed Asparagus
Steaming asparagus is a great way to preserve crunch, maintain color, and bring out the flavor in these delicious green stalks. Steaming your asparagus doesn’t mean purchasing any expensive equipment, with a simple steam basket sufficing.
The Food Network explains how you can quickly and easily steam asparagus:
“This technique turns asparagus vibrant green and takes just a few minutes. We love using it on young slender stalks that just need a touch of cooking to bring out their fresh flavor (especially when they’re in season in spring!) Here’s what you do. Fill a pot with a few inches of water and insert a steamer basket or insert. Lay the asparagus in the steamer and cook until it’s bright green and crisp-tender, 1 1/2 to 2 minutes. Then submerge the asparagus in a large bowl of ice water to quickly stop the cooking. When you’re serving, season the asparagus with salt and pepper.”
Grilled Asparagus
Grilling your asparagus is an ideal way to give this green stalk a totally different flavor, and is a great accompaniment to steak or poultry. In order to grill your asparagus, simply lay the spears on a grill heated medium-high, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side.
Kitchen Treaty tells us how to prepare your asparagus before placing it on the grill:
“Grilled asparagus is smoky, tender, and delicious with a bit of caramelized char. Yum! To grill, dry the asparagus by rolling it around in a kitchen towel. Place the asparagus in a bowl and drizzle with olive oil – about 1 tablespoon per 1 pound of asparagus. Add a pinch of salt and toss until coated.”
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